Silky Wilton Buttercream Dream Icing
This Silky Wilton Buttercream Dream Icing is a classic favorite for cake decorators and dessert enthusiasts alike. Perfected through our extensive Wilton Cake Decorating Class, this creamy icing delivers exceptional results with a flawless finish every time. Its versatile consistency can easily be adjusted by adding water or milk, allowing you to create a range of textures from stiff to thin, making it ideal for piping, spreading, or even as a base for more elaborate designs. For a pure white base perfect for tinting, opt for the white Crisco shortening and a quality clear vanilla extract, such as Wilton's. Unlike other mixtures, this icing remains stable at room temperature, requires no refrigeration, and can be stored for an extended period. Should it dry out, simply add water to revive its original texture. A true icing solution for all your baking projects!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable shortening
1/2 cup (none)
softened butter
1/2 cup (softened)
Wilton clear vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
sifted confectioners' sugar
4 cups (sifted (approx. 1 lb.))
milk or water
2 tablespoons (none)
cocoa powder
3/4 cup (for chocolate icing)
unsweetened chocolate squares
3 ounces (melted (optional for chocolate icing))
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the vegetable shortening and softened butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2
Add the Wilton clear vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
3
Gradually add the sifted confectioners' sugar, one cup at a time, beating on medium speed. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl often to ensure even mixing.
4
Once all the sugar has been incorporated, the icing will appear dry. Slowly pour in the milk or water, and continue to beat at medium speed until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
5
For chocolate icing, sift in the cocoa powder or fold in the melted unsweetened chocolate during the sugar addition step.
6
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator and remember to rewhip it before using any chilled portions.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silky Wilton Buttercream Dream Icing?
It is a classic, creamy icing favorite among cake decorators and dessert enthusiasts, known for its flawless finish and versatile consistency.
Is this icing suitable for beginners?
Yes, this recipe was perfected through the Wilton Cake Decorating Class and is designed to provide exceptional results for decorators of all levels.
How can I adjust the consistency of the icing?
The consistency can be easily adjusted from stiff to thin by gradually adding small amounts of water or milk until your desired texture is reached.
What are the different uses for this icing?
Its versatile nature makes it ideal for piping intricate designs, spreading smoothly on cakes, or serving as a base for more elaborate decorations.
How do I achieve a pure white icing for tinting?
To ensure a pure white base, use white Crisco vegetable shortening and a quality clear vanilla extract, such as Wilton's.
Does this icing require refrigeration?
No, this icing remains stable at room temperature and does not require refrigeration once applied to a cake.
What should I do if the icing dries out?
If the icing begins to dry out, simply add a small amount of water to revive its original silky texture.
How much vegetable shortening is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of vegetable shortening.
How much butter is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of softened butter for this recipe.
What type of vanilla extract is recommended?
Wilton clear vanilla extract is recommended to maintain the icing's color and provide a professional flavor.
How much confectioners' sugar is used?
The recipe requires 4 cups of sifted confectioners' sugar, which is approximately 1 pound.
How much liquid should I start with?
Start with 2 tablespoons of milk or water to reach the standard consistency.
Can I make this icing chocolate-flavored?
Yes, you can make chocolate icing by adding cocoa powder or melted unsweetened chocolate during the sugar addition step.
How much cocoa powder is needed for chocolate icing?
For chocolate icing, add 3/4 cup of sifted cocoa powder.
Can I use melted chocolate instead of cocoa?
Yes, you can fold in 3 ounces of melted unsweetened chocolate to create a chocolate version of the icing.
What is the first step in making this icing?
The first step is to cream together the vegetable shortening and softened butter in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
What mixer attachment should I use?
A stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment is recommended for the best results.
When should I add the vanilla extract?
Add the vanilla extract after creaming the shortening and butter, mixing until well combined.
How should I add the confectioners' sugar?
Add the sugar gradually, one cup at a time, beating on medium speed and scraping the bowl frequently.
What if the icing looks dry after adding the sugar?
It is normal for the icing to look dry initially; slowly pour in your milk or water at this stage to achieve the correct consistency.
How should I store leftover icing?
Leftover icing should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Do I need to do anything to chilled icing before using it?
Yes, remember to let the icing come to temperature and rewhip it before using any portions that have been chilled.
Is it necessary to sift the confectioners' sugar?
Yes, sifting the sugar ensures a smooth, lump-free icing.
Can I use water instead of milk?
Yes, both milk and water work effectively to adjust the consistency of the icing.
How long can this icing be stored?
This icing can be stored for an extended period due to its stability at room temperature.
What is the calorie count for this recipe?
Nutritional information such as calories is not currently specified for this recipe.
How many ingredients are in the basic recipe?
The basic recipe contains 5 core ingredients, plus 2 optional ingredients for chocolate variation.
Is this icing good for piping flowers?
Yes, because you can adjust it to a stiff consistency, it is excellent for piping flowers and other decorations.
What speed should I use for mixing?
The recipe recommends using medium speed once you begin adding the sugar and liquids.
Why must I scrape the bowl?
Scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl ensures that all ingredients are evenly incorporated and no lumps remain.